Troubleshooting VAN 9005 Error Code in League of Legends

TL;DR

  • VAN 9005 occurs when Vanguard detects incompatible UEFI boot or TPM 2.0 settings
  • You must configure both UEFI boot mode and enable TPM 2.0 in your BIOS settings
  • Access BIOS by pressing DEL, F2, or F10 during startup depending on your motherboard
  • Save changes properly and restart to apply the security configuration changes
  • Verify settings are active before attempting to launch League of Legends again

The VAN 9005 error code represents a significant security compliance issue that prevents League of Legends from launching. This specific error is generated exclusively by Vanguard, Riot Games’ proprietary anti-cheat software that installs automatically alongside the game client. The error indicates your system’s security configuration doesn’t meet Vanguard’s stringent requirements for competitive integrity.

Vanguard triggers the VAN 9005 error when it detects mismatched boot configuration and security module settings. The anti-cheat system mandates UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) boot mode instead of legacy BIOS, along with enabled TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0 security hardware. These requirements create a secure foundation that prevents sophisticated cheating techniques that could compromise competitive gameplay.

Encountering VAN 9005 completely blocks access to League of Legends, creating immense frustration when you’re eager to play after a demanding day. This security barrier ensures all players compete on equal footing, though the technical requirements can initially seem daunting. Fortunately, resolving this issue involves straightforward BIOS adjustments that permanently eliminate the error.

Modern gaming systems require specific firmware configurations to support advanced security features like Vanguard’s anti-cheat protection. UEFI boot mode provides superior security foundations compared to legacy BIOS, including Secure Boot capabilities and improved malware protection. TPM 2.0 adds hardware-based cryptographic security that prevents memory manipulation and other cheating techniques.

The transition from legacy BIOS to UEFI represents a fundamental shift in how your system initializes hardware and loads the operating system. UEFI offers faster boot times, support for larger drives, and most importantly for gaming, robust security features that anti-cheat systems rely upon. Without UEFI enabled, Vanguard cannot guarantee the integrity of the game environment.

TPM 2.0 serves as a dedicated microcontroller that securely stores cryptographic keys, passwords, and certificates. For gaming applications, it helps verify that no unauthorized modifications have been made to game files or memory. Most modern motherboards include TPM 2.0 capability, though it may require manual activation in BIOS settings. Some systems implement TPM through firmware (fTPM) rather than discrete hardware chips.

Manufacturer implementation varies significantly across different BIOS interfaces from companies like ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, and ASRock. While the core functionality remains consistent, menu structures and terminology differences can make locating these settings challenging for inexperienced users. Understanding these variations helps streamline the configuration process.

Configuring your BIOS to resolve VAN 9005 requires careful navigation through system settings. Begin by completely shutting down your computer rather than using restart functions, as some systems bypass BIOS access during warm reboots. This ensures you have the full startup sequence available for accessing firmware settings.

As your system powers on, repeatedly press the appropriate key to enter BIOS setup—typically DEL, F2, or F10 depending on your motherboard manufacturer. Pay close attention to initial boot screens that briefly display the required key; this information appears for only seconds before the operating system loads. If unsure, consult your motherboard manual or manufacturer website for specific access instructions.

Once inside the BIOS interface, navigate to the boot configuration section. This may be labeled as ‘Boot’, ‘Boot Options’, ‘Startup’, or similar terminology depending on your BIOS vendor. Locate the boot mode setting, which might appear as ‘Boot Mode’, ‘UEFI/Legacy Boot’, or ‘CSM (Compatibility Support Module)’. Disable CSM if present and ensure UEFI mode is selected or enabled.

Now locate TPM settings, typically found under ‘Security’, ‘Advanced’, ‘Trusted Computing’, or ‘PCH-FW Configuration’ tabs. The setting may be called ‘TPM Device Selection’, ‘Security Device Support’, ‘PTT’ (Intel Platform Trust Technology), or ‘fTPM’ (firmware TPM). Enable this feature and ensure TPM 2.0 is selected if multiple versions are available. Some systems require enabling both TPM and specifically selecting TPM 2.0 mode.

After configuring both settings, save changes before exiting BIOS. Most interfaces use F10 to save and reset, but confirm the specific key prompt at the bottom of your BIOS screen. Your system will restart with the new configuration active. Allow the system to fully boot into Windows before testing League of Legends.

Illustration of a computer BIOS screen with UEFI and TPM 2.0 settings highlighted for fixing VAN 9005 error in League of Legends and Valorant

League of Legends
League of Legends

If VAN 9005 persists after configuration changes, several common issues may require attention. First, verify that changes were properly saved by re-entering BIOS and confirming settings remain configured. Some systems require additional security settings like Secure Boot enabled alongside UEFI mode—check for this option in your boot or security sections.

Avoid these frequent configuration mistakes: forgetting to disable CSM (Compatibility Support Module), enabling TPM but not selecting version 2.0, or saving BIOS changes incorrectly. Some users accidentally press ESC instead of F10, discarding their modifications. Double-check that both requirements are met simultaneously—UEFI boot alone or TPM 2.0 alone will not resolve VAN 9005.

For systems where standard BIOS keys don’t work, try alternative access methods. Windows 10 and 11 offer advanced startup options accessible through Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Advanced Startup. This can provide direct access to UEFI firmware settings. Some gaming laptops require holding Shift while clicking Restart to access these advanced options.

After successful configuration, verify settings through Windows by opening Device Manager and checking under Security devices for TPM presence. You can also run ‘tpm.msc’ to view TPM status details. For UEFI verification, check System Information and confirm BIOS Mode shows UEFI rather than Legacy.

Understanding these security requirements provides valuable context for other gaming scenarios. Just as proper loadout configuration enhances performance in BF6 Weapons Unlock strategies, correct system security settings ensure optimal anti-cheat protection. Similarly, mastering these technical fundamentals parallels the systematic approach needed for effective Class Guide selection in competitive gaming environments.

Action Checklist

  • Perform complete shutdown (not restart) of your computer
  • Access BIOS by pressing DEL, F2, or F10 repeatedly during startup
  • Navigate to boot settings and enable UEFI mode (disable CSM if present)
  • Locate TPM settings in security section and enable TPM 2.0
  • Save changes with F10 and verify settings after restart

No reproduction without permission:GameCDjnh » Troubleshooting VAN 9005 Error Code in League of Legends Complete guide to fix VAN 9005 error in League of Legends by configuring UEFI boot and TPM 2.0 settings